Cardinal Kung Academy commits to academic rigor across the disciplines, from math and sciences to the humanities, and insists upon high standards for writing and critical reading, which are both taught and expected.

The integrated humanities cycle is at the heart of the school’s curriculum. Each year, each high school grade level focuses on the history and literature of a specific era of Western civilization. During freshman year, the subject of study is the ancient world, from Homer to Augustine (750 BC–400 AD). Sophomore year covers Late Antiquity to the fall of the Byzantine Empire (1453). Juniors study the Renaissance up to the emergence of modern Europe (1400s–1900s). During senior year, students study modernity with a focus on American history and literature.

This literary and historical survey of the Western tradition inspires students through reading the great books, engaging the great ideas, and discovering the great figures who have formed our culture.

Theology, art, music, and Latin coursework also complement the specific time period of focus; this weaving of coursework allows students a more thorough understanding of each era of study.